Tech Desk 
May 20, 2025
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has strongly refused recent reports of blocking YouTube channels involved in suspected anti-state material.
In a statement released by PTA, there is no list prepared or provided to the federal government for a ban on any YouTube channels.
This clarification followed a private television channel news report that a group of YouTube channels could be banned for their role in perpetuating anti-state stories.
The PTA has denounced the report as baseless and misleading. The authority has also appealed to media outlets to verify facts before airing sensitive reports that could create confusion among people.
PTA clarified that its constitutional authority is specified through the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
As per this act, PTA can only act against unlawful online content, like blocking or taking it down.
However, all legal action, investigation or prosecution in regard to hate speech or anti-state content is within the jurisdiction of law enforcement agencies and not the PTA.
Over the past few months, digital platforms such as YouTube have been in the limelight within Pakistan for carrying objectionable or offensive content.
While there has been a struggle by the authorities to balance freedom of speech and national security, this announcement from PTA explains its role and limitations in managing digital content.
The authority has appealed to all media organisations to play their part responsibly and cross-check the news before going to print, particularly on sensitive topics.
"We appeal to media persons to adhere to ethical journalism and refrain from propagating false information that can cause public misperception," the statement further added.
